Adelaide captain Jordan Dawson says debutant Daniel Curtin is “built” for big occasions like a Showdown.
The Crows confirmed on Tuesday afternoon that they will debut their pick No.7 from the 2023 National Draft.
Beginning the season at SANFL level – Curtin had impressed over his first four matches – averaging 20 disposals and 5.8 marks per game, while using the ball at 88 per cent efficiency.
Speaking to the media ahead of the Showdown, Dawson said he was excited to see the 18-year-old take his talents to the big stage.
“It’s really exciting for the group (that Dan is debuting), he’s been a massive worker since he got to the Club late last year and he’s got plenty of tricks,” Dawson said.
“To see him do it in the SANFL at such a high-level, I think that he will complement our backline and our group as a whole very well at AFL level.
“I think he will handle it (the Showdown) really well, he’s been in the limelight for the last few years around being a top draft pick, so he’s had that extra pressure before he plays his first game.
“I feel like he is definitely built for these types of games and I’m really excited to see what he can bring.”
Thursday night’s match will also give Adelaide a chance to farewell Club great Rory Sloane, after the 34-year-old announced his retirement on Monday morning.
Dawson spoke of the influence the former captain had on both himself and the group as a whole.
“He’s been a massive part of my leadership journey so far, we’d had conversations over his futures, and I’d always said if we played again or not his guidance would be huge for not only myself, but the whole group,” Dawson said.
“He’s one that will always be there for us whenever we need it, and for myself, he will always be a great person to bounce ideas off and just chat too.
“We all know how positive and brave he is as a person, and he’s just been a great rock for me and the entire group.”
Adelaide will face Port Adelaide on Thursday night, with the first bounce at 7pm (ACST).
